10 days in Panama itinerary

Thinking of visiting Central America? Read on for a 10-day Panama itinerary that’ll have you experiencing this unique country in immersive — and unforgettable — style. Taking you from the old-world charms and ultra-modern verve of Panama City, to hopping the idyllic San Blas Islands (and beyond), you’ll most likely be left longing to return after enjoying a sensational taste of this colorful country.

10 days in Panama itinerary

Good news — ten days will enable you to experience many of the best things to do in Panama, including soaking up Panama City’s UNESCO-designated treasures, and spending time on some of the country’s spectacular islands.

This timeframe will also enable you to unplug, and truly take stock of your surroundings — it’s true to say constantly dashing from place to place isn’t the ideal way to appreciate a destination.

Rather, having time to stand still — or stretch out, given some of the beautiful beaches included in this itinerary — makes for a much more satisfying experience.

 Love the unexpected? Read up on things you didn’t know you could do in Panama.

Day 1: slow arrival in Panama City

In keeping with the immersive vibe of this Panama itinerary for 10 days, after arriving in Panama City and checking into your hotel, go for a stroll to find your new favourite café.

It's not for nothing that Panama is esteemed as one of the world’s best coffee-producing regions, with Geisha being the country’s most famous brew. We suggest heading to Café Unido — a friendly local favorite that’s known for its ethical, Panamanian-sourced coffee.

Once you’re full of beans, take a leisurely stroll along Cinta Costera, a scenic coastal path that hugs the Bay of Panama. This wide, palm-lined promenade stretches for miles, offering incredible views of the city’s towering skyline on one side, with the Pacific Ocean on the other.

Next, enjoy a local lunch in the Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market). You’ll find it just off the Cinta Costera on the edge of Casco Viejo. 

Pair your bowl of corvina ceviche (sea bass marinated in lime) with a cold Balboa beer or fresh coconut water and savour while watching fishermen bring in the day’s catch.

After lunch, stroll Avenida Central, Panama City’s pedestrian-only shopping street, or head to Parque Omar.

Lastly, round off your first day in the city with a sundowner (or two) and dinner at a rooftop bar.

Rough Guides tip: Limited to a week? Dive into our 5-day Panama itineraries.

Where to stay in Panama City

Given that Panama City’s neighborhoods all offer something different, read on for an overview of what makes each unique. Happily, there are options for all tastes and budgets.

Casco Viejo: best for culture vultures 

Historic and hip, Casco Viejo will suit travelers who want easy access to Panama City's cultural scene.

Packed with boutique hotels, restaurants, and rooftop bars, this revitalized old town area ain’t quiet, but it is loaded with attractions.

El Cangrejo: best for budget travelers and local nightlife

Located near the business district, with easy metro access, El Cangrejo has accommodation options ranging from high-rise apartments to very affordable hotels.

Also known for its international dining scene, with everything from sushi joints to Middle Eastern eateries serving (largely) affordable food, El Cangrejo is also loaded with local flavour.

Punta Paitilla and Punta Pacific: best for seafront frills

Fancy bedding down in a swanky skyscraper hotel that offers sweeping sea views? Punta Paitilla and Punta Pacifica have your name all over them.

Both neighborhoods offer some of the most upscale accommodations in Panama City along with luxury malls and fine dining restaurants.

Amador Causeway: best for laid-back stays 

For something more serene and scenic, check out accommodation in the Amador Causeway, possibly somewhere that serves views of ships lining up for the Panama Canal. 

You’ll be away from the hustle and bustle of downtown — though the center is still within easy reach ­— and have access to outdoor activities.

Day 2: explore Casco Viejo

Next on the agenda of our Panama itinerary for 10 days is an immersive, old-meets-bold experience in the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo neighborhood.

Not only is this area rich in history, it’s also the soul of Panama City, and stacked with bars, restaurants and boutiques selling local crafts.

Start your day early to explore Casco Viejo’s historic charm before the heat sets in. You could, for example, head to Plaza de la Independencia to see the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning 18th-century church with twin bell towers. 

Just steps away from the square, the Museo del Canal Interoceánico reveals how the Panama Canal was built.

On that subject, we also suggest spending time in Plaza Francia, which honors the French engineers who began work on the Panama Canal. 

Right near Plaza Francia, be sure stop by one of the local artisan markets to buy unique souvenirs, most notably colorful molas (hand-stitched textiles) made by indigenous Guna Yala.

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to switch gears and soak up Casco Viejo’s lively nightlife, staring with cocktails on a rooftop terrace.

Things to see

Here’s a handy checklist of some of the best things to see in Casco Viejo.

• Metropolitan Cathedral: located in the heart of Plaza de la Independencia, this 18th-century cathedral is a masterpiece of colonial architecture.
• Plaza de la Independencia: Casco Viejo’s main square is surrounded by colonial buildings, including the Museo del Canal and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
• Museo del Canal Interoceánico: this must-see museum reveals the history of the Panama Canal.
• San José Church (Altar de Oro): famous for its golden altar, which was hidden from pesky pirate Henry Morgan when he sacked Panama Viejo.
• Casa Gongora: one of Panama City’s oldest colonial homes is now a cultural center and hosts exhibitions and events.

Day 3: travel to the San Blas Islands

A change of pace and scenery is in store on the next leg of this 10-day Panama itinerary when you head to the stunning San Blas islands.

Located in the Caribbean Sea off Panama’s north-eastern coast, the islands are known as Guna Yala, a semi-autonomous area governed by the Indigenous Guna people 

As such, they’re accessible, yet still feel like an untouched paradise. Think postcard-perfect soft white sand, swaying palm trees, and some of the clearest water you’ll ever see.

Offering opportunities to learn about Guna customs, they’re also an excellent destination for travelers interested in culture, and invite adventure in the form of island-hoping, snorkelling and diving.

Fancy enjoying wild adventures in Panama? Check-out our beginners guide to the Panama rainforest.

Travel time and options

The San Blas islands lie about 3 to 5 hours by car or boat from Panama City, or you can reach them in under an hour if you fly. Read on for a run-down of your travel options.

By road and boat 

The most common way to reach the San Blas Islands from Panama City is through a combination of 4x4 drive and boat.

From Panama City, it’s a 2.5-3-hour drive to Carti — the main launch point for boats to the islands. 

While the views through the Guna Yala mountain range are stunning, the roads can be rough and winding. So, rather than self-drive you might want to book a 4x4 transfer through local tour operators. Expect to pay $30-50 one way.

On arrival in Carti, you’ll hop on a small boat (usually 20-30 minutes) that will take you to whichever island you’re staying on. Boat rides are often included in the package deal with your accommodation.

By plane

You can also fly from Albrook Airport in Panama City to El Porvenir, the administrative capital of the San Blas Islands. From there, you’ll take a boat to your accommodation.

Flying is faster (around 40 minutes) but more expensive than driving — expect to pay $100-150 each way.

On a sailing trip

Those with more time — and money — could sail to the San Blas Islands. 

Many companies offer multi-day tours that take you from Portobelo (on the Caribbean coast) or Panama City through the islands. 

Sailing trips can last anywhere from 3-5 days and often include stops at various islands. Expect to pay $400-600, depending on the length and services provided.

Day 4-5: relax on the San Blas Islands

This recommended Panama itinerary for 10 days devotes days 4 and five to doing a (perhaps literal) deep dive into the San Blas Islands. Here’s what you can see and do during those two days. Spoiler alert: beaches loom large. Talking of which…

Things to do

Relax on the beach

Kicking off with the obvious, one of the best things to do in San Blas is to simply bliss out on the beach. Whether it's in a hammock under the palms or lying on the soft sand by the water, the islands are perfect for disconnecting from the outside world.

Island-hop

With 365 islands to choose from, we suggest joining an island-hopping tour to visit several in a single day and move between beaches, reefs, and sandbars.

When it comes to must-visit islands, Isla Perro (Dog Island) is known for its beautiful beaches and sunken WWII shipwreck, with Cayo Holandés reefs making it a top spot for snorkelers. On that subject…

Snorkel and dive

The coral reefs surrounding the San Blas Islands are teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, starfish, rays, and sea turtles. 

Experience Guna culture

One of the most rewarding joys of visiting San Blas is learning about Guna culture. 

In fact, many island stays are run by Guna families, which means you’ll get to taste traditional foods and see mola textiles being made.

Where to stay on San Blas

When it comes to accommodation, the San Blas Islands offer something for everyone — from solo backpackers on a budget, to couples seeking romance.

Read on for a summary of where to stay in San Blas.

Best for backpackers and adventurers: Isla Perro Chico (Dog Island)

Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Isla Perro Chico boasts a lively backpacker vibe, with plenty of affordable basic accommodation in stunning natural settings.

Expect simple wooden cabanas, usually with sand floors, shared bathrooms, and limited electricity, to cost around $40–$80 a night.

Best for romantic escapes: Isla Chichime

Oft hailed one of the most beautiful islands in San Blas, Isla Chichime is known for its long white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear water. 

Being much quieter than Isla Perro, it’s ideal for couples who want to escape the crowds and have a more intimate experience. Expect to pay $80–$150 for a beachfront cabana.

Best for families and local culture: Isla Diablo

Isla Diablo (Devil Island) is a family-friendly island that strikes a balance between comfort, affordability, and opportunities to engage with local culture. 

It’s also close enough to visit neighboring islands like Isla Perro and Isla Chichime on day trips.

Family-sized cabanas with private or semi-private bathrooms will set you back around around $100–$200 per night.

Best for luxurious eco-stays: Isla Coco Blanco 

Looking for a more exclusive, luxury experience? Isla Coco Blanco is a private island escape with a more upscale twist. 

Expect spacious beachfront cabanas with private bathrooms, eco-friendly amenities, personalized service and high-quality meals. And the cost? You're looking at $200–$400 per night.

Browse place to stay in San Blas.

Day 6: return to Panama City and travel to Bocas del Toro

Day six of this 10-day Panama itinerary will see you head back to Panama City in order to travel onto the beautiful Bocas del Toro (“mouths of the bull”) area.

Here’s how to do exactly that. 

Travel time and options

Isolated on the Costa Rican border between the Caribbean and the forested slopes of the Cordillera Talamanca, Bocas del Toro is a paradise of beaches, mangroves and marine life. 

There are several ways to get to Bocas del Toro from Panama City, each offering different levels of speed, comfort and cost. 

By plane

The quickest and easiest way to get to Bocas del Toro from Panama City is to take a domestic flight from Albrook Airport in Panama City to Bocas del Toro International Airport on Isla Colón, the main island in the Bocas archipelago.

Flights take round an hour and cost $100–150 one way, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.

By bus and boat

The most budget-friendly way to get to Bocas del Toro is to take an overnight bus from Panama City to Almirante (the coastal town closest to Bocas), then a water taxi to Isla Colón.

By car and boat

Prefer to travel at your own pace? Rent a car in Panama City, drive to Almirante (this will take 10-11 hours), and then take the water taxi to Isla Colón.

Most of the drive is on the Pan-American Highway, followed by a scenic route through the Cordillera de Talamanca mountains.

Renting a car typically costs around $40–70 per day, plus fuel.

By private shuttle and boat 

If you want more comfort than the bus but don’t want to drive yourself, consider booking a private shuttle from Panama City to Almirante, followed by the water taxi to Isla Colón. 

Your time on the road will be around 9-10 hours, and you can expect to pay $50–70 one way.

Where to stay in Bocas del Toro

Deciding where to stay in Bocas del Toro will depend on your taste (and budget), with each island having a distinct vibe and set of options. Here are a few ideas to kick-start your search.

Best places to stay on Isla Colón

• Bocas Town: with options ranging from mid-price hotels, to budget-pleasing hostels, this is the most convenient place to stay.
• Bluff Beach: this beautiful area offers more tranquil accommodation options.

Best places to stay on Isla Bastimentos

• Red Frog Beach: looking for beachfront luxury and eco-friendly accommodation? Focus your search on Red Frog Beach.
• Old Bank: for a more local and rustic experience, check-out the Old Bank area.

Best places to stay on Isla Solarte

• Secluded luxury eco-lodges: Solarte’s accommodation options are more isolated, with luxury options like Nayara Bocas del Toro offering upscale villas.
• Quiet retreats: for a more affordable stay, check-out Solarte’s smaller guesthouses, or book a rustic cabin.

Find your perfect place to stay in Bocas del Toro.

Day 7: island hopping in Bocas del Toro

Devote day seven of your Panama vacation to island-hopping Bocas del Toro. Either take affordable water taxis from Bocas Town on Isla Colón, or else book a boat tour from Colon.

The best islands to explore

Most visitors focus on Isla Colón — the liveliest island of the archipelago — because Bocas Town, its main settlement, serves as the region’s transport hub. 

It's also not short of restaurants, bars, tour operators and beaches. Don't miss spending time on Starfish Beach and Bluff Beach, with the latter recommended for surfers.

In contrast, Isla Bastimentos has more of a back-to-nature a vibe — think dense jungle hikes in Bastimentos National Marine Park, and unspoiled beaches, among them picture-perfect Polo Beach and Red Frog Beach.

For the ultimate away-from-it-all island, be sure to visit Isla Solarte. With no roads and no town, it’s beloved by divers and snorkelers, with lush hiking trails revealing stacks of sloths and tropical birds.

Day 8: day trip to Dolphin Bay and Zapatilla Islands

If you’re in Bocas del Toro, taking a day trip to Dolphin Bay and the Zapatilla Islands is an absolute must. 

Offering a joyful blend of wildlife encounters, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it showcases the best of Bocas del Toro’s natural beauty from the moment you board your boat to Dolphin Bay (Bahía de los Delfines).

Located in the calm waters between Isla Cristobal and the mainland, this is a popular spot for observing wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

Most tours then make a stop at Coral Cay — an overwater restaurant and snorkeling spot near Isla Bastimentos — before heading to the Zapatilla Islands.

Here two uninhabited, undeveloped islands — part of the Bastimentos National Marine Park — are ringed by shallow coral reefs that teem with marine-life.

Day 9: relax in Bocas del Toro

Come day nine, we suggest you take time to simply chill out and relax to truly soak up some island magic.

If the need for activity strikes, consider going on a snorkeling trip. We especially recommend heading to Hospital Point off Isla Solarte or Coral Cay, between Isla Bastimentos and Isla Solarte. 

Day 10: Return to Panama City and depart

After your paradisiacal stay in Bocas del Toro, it’s time to head back to Panama City ready for your flight home (or your onward journey, if you’re lucky) on day ten.

Optional: Valle de Antón day trip

If you prefer a more varied vacation, consider cutting down your time on the San Blas Islands or Bocas del Toro to explore Valle de Antón — a verdant valley surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls and towering peaks.

Nestled in the crater of an ancient, dormant volcano, and reached in 2–3 hours by car or bus from Panama City, it’s a spectacular haven for hikers and nature lovers, with several trails offering stunning views as they lead to secret waterfalls and hot springs.

In good news if you’re not into hardcore hikes, many trails are moderate.

If you’re still making up your mind, browse our customizable Panama itineraries for inspiration, and contact our local expert to craft your perfect vacation.